Angel Tree Christmas Party

What Child Doesn't Want to receive a Christmas gift from their parent? Gem of the Valley Church and Community Outreach Ministry of Wildomar are partnering together to hold an Angel Tree Christmas Party. Gem and COM in celebration of Christmas have adopted more than 80 Angel Tree families and approximately 200 Angel tree Children whose parents are in prison. Studies show that children of prisoners are five times more likely to end up in prison themselves. Every day these children are in danger of losing their homes to poverty, violence, and drugs. These children will never have national attention, nor will donations pour in for them from all over the world. Right now an estimated 2,000,000 kids have a mom or dad in prison. Unless we reach these children now, 66% of them will become the next generation of inmates. As a Community we have an opportunity to reach out to the "least of these," and make a difference. Together we can break the cycle that puts prisoners children at risk of one day being in prison themselves. We can help these young people grow stronger, build confidence and heal their wounds. In an Angel Tree Christmas - every one wins. The prisoner feels the pride of doing something personal for his or her child and writes a message attached to their gift. The child experiences the joy of knowing his parent hasn't forgotten him. Our Community reaps the rewards of giving new hope into their lives. The gifts are being purchased, wrapped, and beautifully decorated by the ladies of Curves and local citizens. Jessica Willits of Christian Youth Theatre (CYT) will be performing a live play about a family who is grieving because father is away at Christmas. The family's spirit is changed when an Angel comes to breathe hope into their lives. The family's spirit is renewed, comforted, and filled with joy. The entire play is acted out through beautiful Christmas songs and movement. Some of the delightful songs in the play are: Breath of Heaven, Who would Imagine a King, Go tell it on the Mountain, and It Came Upon a Midnight clear. The cast is thrilled to volunteer their talents to bring joy to these youngsters and their familes at the Christmas Season. Denise Ronzello of Murrieta Beauty Supply and Salon formerly known as Looking Good will be heading up lunches for our guests. We welcome food donations of sandwiches, cookies, and holiday treats. Denise can be reached at 677-1379. Volunteers from the Community are invited to set up, tear down, and pass out gifts. Citizens are welcome to come and celebrate the joy of Christmas. The Angel Tree Christmas Party is being hosted by Gem of the Valley Church and Community Outreach Ministry on Sunday, December 18, 2005, @ 1:00 PM. For more information call 698-7650.